Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Upgrading a Ferrari is a tricky job, but the guys at Novitec Rosso seem to be pretty good at it, judging from their latest interpretation of Ferrari's thoroughbred sportscar, the 458 Italia. The German aftermarket specialists offer a complete package that includes engine tuning, aerodynamic tweaks and styling upgrades, inside and out.

The 4.5-liter V8 engine gets an extra 39 horsepower by means of intake adjustments, ECU mapping and by adding a high-performance lightweight exhaust system. Not only the power, but the torque as well has gone up, from 540 Nm to 569 Nm at 5,400 rpm (398 to 419.7 lb-ft of torque).

This means the Novitec Rosso 458 Italia can now reach a top speed of 330 km/h (199 mph), 5 km/h more than the standard car. No details have been offered yet about the sprint from 0 to 62 mph (100km/h), but it should be slightly faster than the regular model.

The Novitec Rosso conversion also adds a modified suspension with front lift system that lowers the car by 35 millimeters and carbon fiber aerodynamic components including a front spoiler, rear wing and rear diffuser.

On the inside, clients can spec the car to their taste, choosing from an endless number of colors and leather upholstery designs. To mirror the exterior tweaks, the center console, scuff plates and longer shift paddles on the steering wheel are all made from carbon fiber.